Notched Inductor Layout for Uniform Induction Flange Forming

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing induction forming devices for electrically conductive parts, such as metal sheets, result in inhomogeneous deformations of flanged edges due to uneven current distribution, leading to unsatisfactory shape outcomes.

Innovation Solution

The induction forming device incorporates an inductor with a longitudinal inductive portion featuring notches that narrow the transverse cross-section, allowing for controlled current distribution and increased current intensity at the edges, thereby inducing homogeneous deformation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If a conventional inductor without notches is used, then the forming time is short, but the current distribution is inhomogeneous leading to poor deformation quality

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeformation qualityVSAvoidinductor structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The inductor introduces notches at specific locations (within 20% of the end distances) to create localized variations in current distribution. These notches concentrate current at the ends of the inductive portion, enabling homogeneous deformation of the flanged edge while maintaining overall device simplicity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The inductive portion is segmented by introducing notches that divide the current path into distinct regions. This segmentation allows different current intensities in different zones (higher at ends, lower in middle), achieving uniform deformation across the entire flanged edge

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Manufacturing precision

If the inductive portion has uniform cross-section, then the device structure is simple, but the current intensity at the ends is insufficient leading to inhomogeneous deformation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuniformity of deformationVSAvoidinductive portion geometry
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The inductive portion features a non-uniform cross-section with notches positioned at specific locations (distance from ends less than 20% of total length). This creates localized current concentration at the ends while maintaining simplicity elsewhere, achieving homogeneous deformation without complex overall geometry

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The device achieves improved deformation quality with uniform flanged edges by optimizing current distribution, maintaining a short forming time and enabling adaptable deformation based on part thickness and conductivity.

Implementation Method 1

an inductor configured to inductively deform a portion of an electrically conductive part... generate an electromagnetic field. The electromagnetic field is to induce a current in a portion of an electrically conductive part so that Lorentz forces are generated

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

induce a current in a portion of an electrically conductive part so that Lorentz forces are generated. These Lorentz forces are likely to deform the portion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLorentz force: Lorentz Force

Implementation Method 3

the inductive portion comprising at least one notch defining a narrowing of a transverse cross-section of this inductive portion... notches make it possible, for example, to increase the current intensity in the ends of the inductive portion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCurrent concentration through geometric narrowing:

Data Source

PatentUS12521781B2Induction forming device comprising an inductor configured to deform by induction a portion of an electrically conductive part, and deforming method implemented by such a device
Publication Date: 2026.01.13 AIRBUS ATLANTIC (SAS)
  • US12521781B2 patent drawing
  • US12521781B2 patent drawing
  • US12521781B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The induction moulding device comprises an inductor configured to deform by induction a portion of an electrically conductive part, the inductor comprising a first power terminal, a second power terminal and at least one inductive portion electrically connecting the first power terminal and the second power terminal, the inductive portion being intended to induce an induced current in the electrically conductive part, the inductive portion extending in a longitudinal direction in which a supply current is intended to flow between the first power terminal and the second power terminal, the inductive portion comprising at least one notch defining a narrowing of a cross section of the inductive portion perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.